Part 3: Project 8: Finished Outcomes

Over all I am fairly pleased with the outcome of this first reduction print. There is not much I’d do differently. Perhaps I’d be a little less concerned about inadvertently creating lascivious outcomes and stick to my original design and do less designing “on the hoof” so to speak. I was thinking in particular about the area immediately behind the central figure whose leg is extended. My concern was that she appeared overly exposed, but feel my prudishness may have had the effect of rendering the central figure behind her a little off balance as I removed a block that would otherwise have been darker in colour and so she appears to have only one leg to stand on. This hasn’t spoiled the composition though, as it is quite abstract in nature, as was my intention.

I think that it’s okay to react to how the design actually looks on paper once printed. On the whole, designing at the outset and then sticking to a plan is probably best. But the nature of printmaking is that outcomes are not always so predictable. It is tempting to change one’s mind part way through and make adjustments accordingly.

I am happy with the effect of the residual cut marks being in different directions which implies movement to the scene. It also has a furry quality which I may use in the next exercise.

My thinking behind this design was to create something of an homage to the poster designs of the roaring ’20s. In creating this piece, I am satisfying my need to bring a sense of hope to the viewer. The themes of optimism towards the future of human interaction (in the current COVID climate) speak of a new attitude. Being that bit older than the average student, I am aware that human experience involves peaks and troughs – not only as individuals, but as a species. I think an atmosphere of devil-may-care may prevail again, just like that brief spell of respite between the two world wars. My hope is that this will not be quite so short-lived. I look forward to a time when people will come together in groups once again to celebrate life, health, and a sense of mental well-being, with all the benefits that has to offer.